Life insurance can have unconventional payoffsMany people think of life insurance as a necessary investment for those with young children or new mortgages, but advisers suggest thinking of life insurance policies -- even term policies -- as a way to maximize pension or Social Security benefits or as part of estate planning. CNBC
(12/13)

U.S. college savings plans come up short on transparencyThe 529 plans many American families depend on for tax-free savings to be applied to higher education offer little transparency, something the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board is trying to remedy by compiling a readily accessible performance database. "The MSRB wants to ensure that 529-plan investors have the information necessary to make informed decisions -- especially for something as vital as saving for a child's education. A comprehensive database of 529-plan information will help us achieve this goal," said MSRB Chairman Jay Goldstone. The Wall Street Journal
(12/14)

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Editor's Note

FPA SmartBrief will not publish Dec. 25 or Jan. 1In observance of the Christmas and New Year's holidays, FPA SmartBrief will publish on Thursdays instead of Tuesdays for the next two weeks. Enjoy the holidays!

SmartQuote

We should be taught not to wait for inspiration to start a thing. Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action."

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